They are all believed to be “autoimmune disorders,” where the body launches an attack against its own tissue. These chronic, progressive conditions lead to tissue damage. They can be serious conditions that require care from your doctor. The sooner these disorders are treated, the better the outcome. If you suspect you have this condition, contact your doctor right away.

Causes

Although the cause or causes are not known, a viral infection may trigger the onset of dermatomyositis by causing the body’s immune system to identify infected skin and muscle tissue as a threat.

Risk Factors

Your chance of developing this condition is higher if you have another connective tissue disorder.

Symptoms

If you have any of these symptoms, do not assume it is due to dermatomyositis. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions. If you have any one of the following symptoms, see your doctor.

Weakness

Especially of the hips and thighs (making it difficult to climb stairs or stand)

Experimental Treatments

Prevention

There are no known ways to prevent dermatomyositis.

Women's Health: How Much Do You Know?

As a woman, your health concerns are as unique as your body. How you take care of yourself has a huge impact on your future, affecting everything from your ability to have children to your risk of heart disease. There's no substitute for good health, and when it's gone, it's often gone for good. Don't let it pass you by. Test your smarts with this women's health quiz.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

They are all believed to be “autoimmune disorders,” where the body launches an attack against its own tissue. These chronic, progressive conditions lead to tissue damage. They can be serious conditions that require care from your doctor. The sooner these disorders are treated, the better the outcome. If you suspect you have this condition, contact your doctor right away.

Causes

Although the cause or causes are not known, a viral infection may trigger the onset of dermatomyositis by causing the body’s immune system to identify infected skin and muscle tissue as a threat.

Risk Factors

Your chance of developing this condition is higher if you have another connective tissue disorder.

Symptoms

If you have any of these symptoms, do not assume it is due to dermatomyositis. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions. If you have any one of the following symptoms, see your doctor.

Weakness

Especially of the hips and thighs (making it difficult to climb stairs or stand)

Experimental Treatments

Prevention

There are no known ways to prevent dermatomyositis.

Women's Health: How Much Do You Know?

As a woman, your health concerns are as unique as your body. How you take care of yourself has a huge impact on your future, affecting everything from your ability to have children to your risk of heart disease. There's no substitute for good health, and when it's gone, it's often gone for good. Don't let it pass you by. Test your smarts with this women's health quiz.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.
Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.